Setting up a self-managed super fund

Transcription

1 Introduction for people setting up an SMSF Setting up a self-managed super fund What you need to know to set up a self managed super fund NAT

2 NAT NAT COVER ICON HEAD Cover icon text For more information visit NAT NAT Our commitment to you We are committed to providing you with accurate, consistent and clear information to help you understand your rights and entitlements and meet your obligations. If you follow our information in this publication and it turns out to be incorrect or misleading, and you fail to comply with the law as a result, we must still apply the law correctly. However, we will take the fact that you followed our information into account when deciding what action, if any, we should take. If you make an honest mistake in trying to follow our information in this publication and you fail to comply with the law as a result, we will take the reason for the mistake into account in deciding what action to take. If you feel that this publication does not fully cover your circumstances, or you are unsure how it applies to you, you can seek further assistance from us. Finding the right information for you If you need more information about self managed super funds (SMSFs), refer to our other products: Thinking about self managed super (NAT 72579) provides you with the steps you need to consider before setting up an SMSF. Introduction for people considering an SMSF Thinking about self-managed super Steps to work out if managing your own super is right for you Running a self managed super fund (NAT 11032) highlights your responsibilities and obligations as a trustee when operating your SMSF. Introduction for SMSF trustees Running a self managed super fund We regularly revise our publications to take account of any changes to the law, so make sure that you have the latest information. If you are unsure, you can check for more recent information on our website at ato.gov.au/smsf or contact us. This publication was current at November How your self-managed super fund is regulated (NAT 71454) provides you with information about our role in regulating SMSFs. Paying benefits from a self-managed super fund (NAT 74124) is designed to assist trustees who are required to make payments out of an SMSF. Overview for SMSF trustees Introduction for paying benefits from an SMSF How your self managed super fund is regulated This publication explains how we work with you and others to regulate your self managed super fund (SMSF). Paying benefits from a self-managed super fund AUSTRALIAN TAXATION OFFICE FOR THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA, 2013 You are free to copy, adapt, modify, transmit and distribute this material as you wish (but not in any way that suggests the ATO or the Commonwealth endorses you or any of your services or products). PUBLISHED BY Australian Taxation Office Canberra November 2013 JS 24198

3 Commissioner s foreword Self-managed super funds (SMSFs) can be a great way to provide for your retirement. Now that you have decided to establish your own fund, it is important you are aware of your responsibilities and obligations as a trustee. The Australian Taxation Office (ATO), as regulator of SMSFs, is responsible for helping to protect the retirement income system by ensuring that SMSFs follow the rules outlined in the super and tax legislation. In recognition of this, our compliance program around SMSFs has increased substantially over recent years and will be maintained and enhanced in years ahead. We maintain a strong focus on education to encourage voluntary compliance in the market. We now have a suite of publications that you can use according to where you are in managing your fund. Our free electronic newsletter SMSF News is an ideal way to keep in touch with what is happening. Remember, if you need help with your fund, you can contact us for specific advice about how the super laws apply to your situation or seek professional advice. Chris Jordan Commissioner of Taxation SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 1

5 Self-managed super and you Like other super funds, SMSFs are a way of saving for your retirement. Generally, the main difference between an SMSF and other types of funds is that members of an SMSF are the trustees. This means the members of the SMSF run it for their own benefit. SMSFs are not suitable for everyone, and you should think carefully before deciding to set one up. It is a major financial decision and you need to have the time and skills to do it. There may be other, better options for your super savings. If you are considering an SMSF for your super savings, the publication Thinking about self-managed super (NAT 72579) provides you with some practical information. Licensed financial advisers, tax agents and accountants can also help you understand what is involved. If you decide that an SMSF is the appropriate vehicle for your super savings, you need to ensure the fund is set up and maintained correctly so that it is eligible for tax concessions, can pay benefits and is as easy as possible to administer. This publication provides some basic information on this and the steps you need to follow to set up the fund correctly. Once your SMSF is established you, as trustee, control the investment of the contributions and fund earnings. Your SMSF must have a trust deed which forms part of the governing rules for operating the fund. You must also prepare and implement an investment strategy and ensure that it is reviewed regularly. There are rules and regulations that you must follow to ensure the fund s assets are protected to provide benefits in retirement. While contributions are being made to the fund it is considered to be in the accumulation phase. Running a self-managed super fund (NAT 11032) explains the responsibilities and obligations of trustees operating an SMSF. When one or more members retire, you as trustee need to understand and follow the requirements of the law and regulations governing the payment of benefits. The payment standards contained in the legislation and regulations, the sole purpose test and the preservation rules ensure that money in the fund is paid to members in the appropriate manner. Paying benefits from a self managed super fund (NAT 74124) is designed to assist trustees who are required to make payments out of their SMSF. It also provides information for funds that have members in both the accumulation and retirement phase. It is important to note that the rules and regulations that apply to funds in the accumulation phase continue when one or more members retire; however additional rules apply to the retirement phase. You should continually reassess the circumstances of the fund and each individual member to determine whether an SMSF is still the most appropriate option for your retirement savings. In some cases, you may find that you no longer have the capacity to deal with the complexity or the time required to manage your SMSF. You may decide that it is not cost-effective to continue to run your own fund. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 3

6 Depending on the circumstances, it may be necessary to transfer member benefits to another complying super fund. Other reasons why you might wind up your SMSF include when all members have left the SMSF (for example, they have rolled over their benefits to another fund or have died) or all the benefits have been paid out. Winding up a self managed super fund (NAT 8107) details the process you need to follow to wind up your fund. Super reform measures The government has supported many of the Super System Review s recommendations to reform super, including the self-managed super fund sector. A number of these measures are aimed at improving the operation, efficiency and integrity of the SMSF sector and are relevant to the way your SMSF is set up and managed. Some of the changes have been implemented and are included in this publication. Others are awaiting legislative change before being introduced. For more information, refer to News on the self-managed super funds homepage available on our website at ato.gov.au/smsf 4 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

7 Setting up an SMSF Setting up your SMSF is not just about taking steps to get your fund started. You will need to make important decisions about how to structure and run your fund. We recommend you seek professional advice before setting up your fund. However, this introduction will help you make sure you have covered the essentials by: n helping you understand how you can structure your fund n providing the steps you need to take to set up your fund and start operating it n explaining your obligations and responsibilities n directing you to more information. It also contains a series of checklists at the end of each chapter to: n guide you through the process n help you check you have covered all the necessary steps. Remember, even if you use a professional adviser to help you set up your fund, you are still responsible for making sure it is done correctly. We regulate SMSFs. All other super funds are regulated by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA). For more information about our role and how we work with you and others to regulate your fund, refer to How your self-managed super fund is regulated (NAT 71454). SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 5

8 Deciding to set up an SMSF Managing your own super is a big responsibility, so it is important you make sure it is the best option for you. An SMSF is just one way to manage your super and save for your retirement. You should consider all the options before you make a final decision. Things to consider Setting up and operating an SMSF is a major financial decision. After all, the responsibility for running the fund and complying with the law rests solely with you as the trustee of your SMSF. While SMSFs are great for some people, they do not suit everyone. Managing your own super takes time, knowledge, skill and money, so before deciding to set up an SMSF: n Consider whether you have the time, knowledge and skill to manage your own super fund assets and money to make the fund viable. n Compare the costs and benefits of running an SMSF with other retirement saving options. n Make sure you are setting up the fund solely to pay retirement benefits to members or members dependants in the event of the member s death. n Check you understand what is involved in managing your own fund and what it means to be a trustee. Legal protections for SMSFs Super laws allow for the provision of financial assistance to be granted to APRA-regulated funds that suffer losses as a result of fraudulent conduct or theft. Under existing super laws there is no government or industry compensation available for members of super funds operating outside the regulation of APRA. However, you do have certain rights and options available should your fund suffer a financial loss due to fraudulent conduct or theft. Legal options are available under corporations law if you received advice or services from an Australian financial services licensee who was involved in the fraudulent conduct or theft. You should seek legal advice about taking action against a person who engaged in the fraudulent conduct or theft. You may also approach the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if your adviser, or other service provider involved in the fraudulent conduct, is a member of FOS. If you want your super to be covered by the financial assistance program, you can choose to join an APRAregulated fund or appoint a registrable super entity licensee as trustee (that is, become a small APRA fund). 6 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

9 You should also understand that you cannot seek resolution of SMSF disputes via the Superannuation Complaints Tribunal (SCT). We recommend you speak to an SMSF professional (such as your accountant or a licensed financial adviser) to discuss whether an SMSF is right for you. Remember, the purpose of setting up your SMSF is to provide for your retirement. It is illegal to set up an SMSF to gain early access to your funds. If benefits are unlawfully released, significant penalties including fines and jail terms of up to five years can apply to you, your fund and the recipient of the early release. Being a trustee gives you the opportunity to actively manage your own super and make your own investment choices, but it also brings responsibilities. All trustees and directors of a corporate trustee are equally responsible for managing the fund and making decisions even if one trustee takes a more active role in its day-to-day running. For a summary of your role and responsibilities as a trustee, see Understanding your role and responsibilities on page 27. For more information, refer to Running a self-managed super fund (NAT 11032). What it means to be a trustee When you set up an SMSF, you take on the role of either a: n trustee n director of a company that is a trustee (called a corporate trustee ). A trustee is a person or company that holds and invests the fund s assets for the benefit of members. As a trustee or director of a corporate trustee, you will be responsible for running the fund and making decisions that affect the retirement interests of each fund member, including yourself. You must comply with the super and tax laws to make sure your fund is entitled to tax concessions and your members interests are protected. You must also: n act in the best interests of all fund members when you make decisions n manage the fund separately from your own affairs n make sure the money in the fund is only accessed if the law allows it see Paying super benefits to members on page 24. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 7

10 Preparing to set up your fund You will need to choose the best way to structure your fund so it complies with the law and suits your and the other members circumstances. Once you have decided to set up an SMSF you need to: n decide on the type of trustee for your fund (either a corporate trustee or individual trustees) n make sure you (and the other members) are eligible to be a trustee (or the director of a corporate trustee) and ready to accept the responsibilities of the role see Trustee eligibility on page 11 n check the residency requirements your fund must meet to be a complying fund and receive tax concessions. Structuring your fund For your fund to be an SMSF it must meet several requirements under the super laws. The requirements can vary depending on whether your fund has individual trustees or a corporate trustee. Some additional rules apply to funds with only one member (see below). If your fund has individual trustees, it is an SMSF if all of the following apply: n it has four or fewer members n each member is a trustee n each trustee is a member n no member is an employee of another member, unless the members are related n no trustee is paid for their duties or services as a trustee. If your fund has a corporate trustee, it is an SMSF if all of the following apply: n it has four or fewer members n each member of the fund is a director of the corporate trustee n each director of the corporate trustee is a member of the fund n no member is an employee of another member, unless the members are related n the corporate trustee is not paid for its services as the trustee n no director of the corporate trustee is paid for their duties or services as director of the corporate trustee. Members who are under 18 years old are under a legal disability and cannot be trustees of a super fund. For more information, see Minors on page SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

11 Single member funds It is possible to set up your super fund with only one member. If your single member fund has a corporate trustee, the member must be one of the following: n the sole director of the corporate trustee n one of only two directors, that is either related to the other director any other person, but not an employer of the member. If you choose not to have a corporate trustee, you must have two individual trustees. One trustee must be the member and the other must be a trustee that is either: n a person related to the member n any other person but not an employer of the member. Types of trustees Once you understand how you can structure your fund, you need to decide on the trustee structure you will use. You can choose either of the following: n up to four individual trustees n a corporate trustee. A corporate trustee is a company incorporated under the law that acts as a trustee for the fund. If you already have a company, you may choose to use it as trustee, as long as it meets the same requirements for members and trustees. Your choice of trustee structure will make a difference to the way you administer your fund and the types of benefits it can pay, so make sure it suits your circumstances. When making your decision, we recommend you: n discuss your trustee options with an SMSF professional n consider the benefits and costs of each type of trustee structure for your situation. The following table includes information you need to consider when choosing the trustee structure for your fund. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 9

12 Table 1: Trustee structure Setting up your fund Establishment costs Single member funds Governing rules Ongoing administration and reporting Administration Reporting Individual trustees The fund can be less costly to establish as you do not have to set up a separate company to act as trustee. You can have a single member fund but only if you have a second individual trustee (that is, you cannot be the only trustee). Trustees must follow the rules in the: n fund s trust deed n super laws. The fund has fewer reporting obligations and can be simpler to administer. As a trustee, you must: n appoint an independent auditor to audit the fund s operations each year n lodge a Self-managed super fund annual return (SMSF annual return) for the fund n pay an annual supervisory levy to us. Corporate trustee It can be more costly to set up the fund initially as you need to establish a company to act as trustee (if you do not already have a company). For more information about what is involved in setting up a company, visit the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) website at asic.gov.au You can have a single member fund if either: n the member is one of only two directors of the corporate trustee and the other director is not an employer of the member director, or n the member is the only director (sole director) of the corporate trustee (company). Directors of the corporate trustee must follow the rules in the: n fund s trust deed n super laws n company s constitution n Corporations Act 2001 (administered by ASIC). Having a corporate trustee can make it easier to: n administer the ownership of fund assets n keep the assets of the fund separate from any personal or business assets. You will have the same requirements as an individual trustee, plus as a director of the corporate trustee, you have reporting obligations to ASIC. You also must pay an annual review fee to ASIC. 10 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

13 Table 1: Trustee structure continued Changes to trustees and members Administration of fund assets Single member funds Reporting Paying benefits to members Individual trustees Fund assets should be held in the name of all individual trustees as trustees for the fund. If there is a change in trustees, you need to: n change the name on the ownership documents (such as a title deed) for each fund asset n notify all relevant authorities/registries. This process can be time-consuming and costly if your fund owns many assets, such as a wide range of shares. If your fund has two trustees and one leaves or dies, you must appoint another trustee in their place for your fund to continue to be an SMSF. If there is a change in trustees or members, you must notify us within 28 days. Your fund can pay lump sum benefits if the trust deed specifically allows it to. Corporate trustee Fund assets should be held in the name of the company as trustee for the fund. If there is a change in directors, you do not have to change the name on the ownership documents for each fund asset (as the trustee is still the same). If the company has two directors, and one leaves you do not have to replace them (a corporate trustee can have a single director). The trustee does not change if a member or director leaves the fund. If there is a change in trustees or members, you must notify us within 28 days. If there is a change in directors, you must: n notify us within 28 days n report the change to ASIC within 28 days. Your fund can pay benefits as a lump sum or pension. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 11

14 Legal personal representatives A legal personal representative can be: n the executor of the will or the administrator of the estate of a deceased person n the trustee of the estate of a person under a legal disability n a person who holds an enduring power of attorney to act on behalf of another person. A legal personal representative can act as a trustee, or director of a corporate trustee, on behalf of: n a deceased member, until the death benefit becomes payable n a member under a legal disability (mental incapacity) n a minor a parent or guardian can also act as a trustee on behalf of a minor. A legal personal representative cannot act as a trustee on behalf of a disqualified person, such as an undischarged bankrupt. A legal personal representative who holds an enduring power of attorney granted by a member may be a trustee of the SMSF or a director of a corporate trustee in place of the member. For more information, refer to Self Managed Superannuation Funds Ruling SMSFR 2010/2. To find this ruling, go to our website at ato.gov.au and search the legal database for SMSFR 2010/2. A legal personal representative does not include a registered tax agent or accountant unless they meet the definition above. Trustee eligibility In most cases, all members of the fund must be trustees, so it is important to make sure all members are eligible to be a trustee. Generally, anyone 18 years old or over and not under a legal disability (such as bankruptcy or mental incapacity) can be a trustee of an SMSF unless they are a disqualified person. A person is disqualified if any of the following apply. They: n have been convicted of an offence involving dishonesty n have been subject to a civil penalty order under the super laws n are considered insolvent under administration n are an undischarged bankrupt n have been disqualified by a regulator for example, by us or APRA. Penalties can apply if you act as a trustee while disqualified. A company cannot be a corporate trustee if any of the following apply: n a responsible officer of the company (such as a director, secretary or executive officer) is a disqualified person n a receiver, official manager or provisional liquidator has been appointed to the company n action has started to wind up the company. You must declare that you and the other trustees or directors of the corporate trustee, are not disqualified when you register your fund with us. In certain circumstances (such as minor dishonesty offences) a disqualified person can apply to us in writing for a waiver of their disqualification status. Minors Members under 18 years old are under a legal disability and cannot be trustees of an SMSF. A parent or guardian of a minor who does not have a legal personal representative can act as a trustee on the minor s behalf. 12 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

15 Having a resident fund To be a complying super fund and receive tax concessions, your fund must be a resident-regulated super fund at all times during the income year. This means your fund must meet the definition of an Australian superannuation fund for tax purposes. If your fund is a non-complying fund, its assets (less certain contributions) and its income are taxed at the highest marginal tax rate. Your fund must meet certain conditions to be an Australian superannuation fund. For more information, go to our website at ato.gov.au/smsf and search for Residency of self-managed super funds. If a member moves or travels overseas for an extended period, this may affect the residency status of the fund. Check your progress Structuring your fund Your fund is structured so it meets the definition of an SMSF see Structuring your fund on page 8. Types of trustees You have: decided on the type of trustee for your fund see Types of trustees on page 9 considered the benefits and costs of appointing individual trustees or a corporate trustee see table 1 on page 10 considered whether you need to discuss your trustee options with an SMSF professional. Trustee eligibility Each individual or director of the corporate trustee is eligible to be a trustee. No individual or responsible officer of the corporate trustee is a disqualified person see Trustee eligibility on page 12. Having a resident fund Your fund meets the residency requirements to be a complying fund and receive tax concessions see Having a resident fund on page 13. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 13

16 Getting your fund started Once you have decided how to structure your fund, there are steps you must take to get it started. It is important to set up your fund correctly so: n it is a complying super fund and qualifies for tax concessions n you protect your retirement savings n you avoid penalties n your fund is able to pay specific benefits n it is as easy as possible to administer. An SMSF professional can help you set up your fund. For example: n a legal practitioner can draft your fund s trust deed n an accountant or administrator can help you organise the paperwork and register your fund with us n a licensed financial adviser can help you prepare an investment strategy. Many SMSF professionals also offer packages or kits to make the process easier. If you purchase one of these, it is important to make sure the trust deed complies with the latest changes to the law and is unique to: n your fund n its objectives n your members circumstances. If you use an SMSF professional to help you set up your fund, you are still responsible for making sure it is done correctly. SMSFs are trusts As all SMSFs are trusts, there are certain steps you must follow under trust law to set up your fund correctly. A trust is an arrangement where a person or company (the trustee) holds assets (trust property) in trust for the benefit of others (the beneficiaries). A super fund is a special type of trust, set up and maintained for the sole purpose of providing retirement benefits to its members (the beneficiaries). To create a trust, you must have: n the intention to create a trust n trustees n a trust deed n property (assets) n identifiable beneficiaries. 14 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

17 Obtaining a trust deed A trust deed is a legal document that sets out the rules for establishing and operating your fund. Together with the super laws, they form the fund s governing rules and detail the: n powers, duties and responsibilities of the fund s trustees n rights of the members n scope of the operation of the super fund (what can and cannot be done within the super laws). An SMSF professional can help you organise a trust deed for your fund, but as it is a legal document, you need to make sure it is prepared by someone qualified to do so. The trust deed covers areas such as: n the fund s objectives n who the trustees are n who can be a trustee n how trustees are appointed or removed n who can be a member n when contributions can be made n how benefits can be paid (pension or lump sum) within SISA requirements n when benefits can be paid n how to appoint professional advisers (such as an auditor) n the procedures for winding up the fund. The trust deed must be tailored to your fund and correctly drafted to meet its objectives and the members needs for example, allowing for the payment of specific benefits. It must also meet all the requirements of the relevant super laws. If your fund has individual trustees, the trust deed needs to state that the fund s sole purpose is to provide retirement benefits to your members, or to their dependants if a member dies before retirement. All trustees must sign and date the trust deed and make sure it is properly executed according to the relevant state or territory laws. All trustees are bound by the trust deed and are equally responsible if its rules are not followed, so it is important that all trustees understand the contents of the deed. As a trustee, you need to make sure the trust deed is regularly reviewed and updated so it complies with the super laws (including changes to the law) and the members needs. Appointing trustees Once you have decided on the type of trustees for your fund, the next step is to appoint them. A new fund appoints trustees under the terms of the fund s trust deed. Remember, for your fund to be an SMSF, generally all members of the fund must be trustees or directors of the corporate trustee see Structuring your fund on page 8. All trustees and directors of a corporate trustee must consent in writing to being appointed. These written records need to be kept for at least 10 years. Holding fund assets To be legally established, your fund needs to hold assets. The trustees hold the fund s assets in trust for the benefit of the members. Your fund is usually established when the members make a contribution to the fund at the same time the trust deed is executed. A contribution can take the form of money or a transfer of certain assets for example, listed shares and securities. New rules for SMSF investments in collectables and personal-use assets were introduced on 1 July You need to be aware of how these types of assets are being held and stored by your fund. You must document decisions about storage for example, in your SMSF meeting minutes. SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 15

18 For more information about: n contributions see Accepting contributions and rollovers on page 21 refer to Running a self-managed super fund (NAT 11032) n collectables and personal-use assets, go to our website at ato.gov.au/smsf and search for Collectables and personal use assets questions and answers. Ownership of your fund s assets One of your responsibilities as trustee is to make sure the assets of the fund are protected and are held separately from your own assets. Assets should be recorded in a way that: n distinguishes them from the trustees personal or business assets n clearly shows legal ownership by the fund. This can protect fund assets in the event of a creditor dispute and prevent costly legal action to prove who owns them. Depending on the types of trustees chosen, fund assets (other than money) should be held in the name of either: n individual trustees as trustees for the fund n the corporate trustee as trustee for the fund. Fund assets cannot be held in the name of a trustee or member as an individual. Examples The Jones Family Super Fund has two individual trustees, Bill and Penny Jones. If legally possible, the fund s assets should be held in the name of Bill and Penny Jones as trustees for the Jones Family Super Fund. The Anderson Super Fund has a corporate trustee, ABC Pty Ltd. If possible, the fund s assets need to be held in the name of ABC Pty Ltd as trustee for the Anderson Super Fund. If state laws do not allow the use of the name of the fund, you need to clearly show and document your fund s ownership of the asset for example, by using one of the following: n a caveat n legal instrument n declaration of trust. For more information about documenting your fund s ownership of the asset, contact the relevant state or territory titles office. Signing a trustee declaration If you are a new trustee (or director of a corporate trustee) you must sign a declaration, in the approved form, within 21 days of becoming the trustee or director. By signing the declaration, you are stating you understand your duties and responsibilities as a trustee or director of the corporate trustee. You must keep the signed declaration for as long as you are the trustee (or director of the corporate trustee). If this period is less than 10 years, the declaration must be retained for at least 10 years. You must make the declaration available to us if we request it. If you do not sign and retain the declaration, or make it available to us when we request it, penalties may be imposed. To obtain a copy of the Trustee declaration (NAT 71089), go to our website at ato.gov.au/smsf and search for Trustee declaration. Recording each member s tax file number When a member joins your fund, it is important you record their tax file number (TFN). You will also be asked to provide each trustee s or director s TFN when you register your fund with us. 16 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

19 If a member has not quoted their TFN: n your fund cannot accept certain contributions made on their behalf, including personal and eligible spouse contributions n your fund will have to pay extra tax on some contributions made to that member s account, including employer and salary sacrifice contributions personal contributions the member claims as an income tax deduction n the member may not be able to receive the super co-contribution. For more information about TFNs and how we tax contributions, refer to Running a self-managed super fund (NAT 11032). Registering with us Once your fund is legally established (by executing the trust deed and setting aside assets for the benefit of members) and all trustees have signed a trustee declaration, you must register your fund with us through the Australian Business Register (ABR). We conduct a risk assessment of all new SMSFs and every individual when member details are provided at the registration stage. When we receive your application we may contact you and ask you to provide various documents, including: n a copy of the trust deed of the fund n copies of minutes from trustee meetings n details of the investment strategy outlining the proposed asset allocation of the fund n copies of the acquisition or transfer contract for all assets acquired by the fund, if applicable n details (including amounts) of any proposed rollovers from other funds n copies of the signed trustee declaration form for all individual trustees and the directors of the corporate trustee. At registration, you: n will receive a TFN and Australian business number (ABN) n can register for goods and services tax (GST). You can register: n online via the ABR at abr.gov.au n by completing ABN registration for superannuation entities (NAT 2944) and lodging the form with us. Electing for your fund to be regulated For your fund to be a complying fund and receive tax concessions, you must elect for it to be regulated and comply with the super laws. The election to be regulated is made as part of your application to register your fund with the ABR. You need to make this election within 60 days of establishing your fund. Generally, your fund is established after the trust deed has been signed and the first contribution is made. If you make the election more than 60 days after you establish the fund, you must tell us your reasons for the delay in writing. Funds that are not regulated are not SMSFs. Non-regulated funds are not entitled to tax concessions and the members employers (and members who are self-employed) cannot claim deductions for contributions they make to the fund. The election to be regulated cannot be reversed. Your fund will continue to be regulated until it is wound up. Obtaining a TFN and ABN We allocate a TFN and an ABN to all funds that register with us. When we give you an ABN, we place some of your fund s details on the ABR and Super Fund Lookup (SFLU). Once we have completed the risk assessment of all members and your application is fully processed, we place all your fund details on SFLU. It takes approximately seven days for your fund to appear on SFLU as a regulated fund. Other super funds can use SFLU to check whether your fund is an eligible fund for transferring super benefits. To access Super Fund Lookup, visit superfundlookup.gov.au SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND 17

20 Registering for GST You must register your fund for GST if its annual turnover is more than $75,000. Most SMSFs do not have to register for GST because they make mainly input taxed supplies and input taxed supplies do not count toward your GST turnover. Annual turnover does not include: n contributions n gross income from financial supplies (including interest and dividends) n residential rent or income generated outside Australia. It does include gross income from the lease of equipment or commercial property. SMSFs can choose to register for GST. When deciding whether to register, you should carefully consider the increase in time and additional costs needed to manage your affairs, keep additional records and lodge business activity statements. You should seek professional advice before registering for GST to make sure that it is in your fund s interest to do so. For more information, refer to our fact sheet GST and financial supplies claiming reduced GST credits (NAT 71512). Opening a bank account You need to open a bank account in your fund s name (not your name or any other entity s name) to: n manage the fund s operations n accept cash contributions and rollovers of super benefits. Contributions and rollovers are deposited into the fund s account. The money is: n invested, according to the fund s investment strategy n used to pay the fund s expenses and liabilities. For more information about contributions and rollovers, refer to Running a self-managed super fund (NAT 11032). Earnings on fund investments are also credited to the fund s bank account. Although you do not have to open a separate bank account for each member, you must keep a separate record of their entitlement (called a member account ). Each member account will record: n contributions made on behalf of the member n any fund investment earnings allocated to them n payments of any super benefits. The fund s bank account must be kept separate from each of the trustees individual bank accounts or any related entity s bank accounts. We recommend you use safeguards (such as joint bank account signatories) to protect the assets of your fund. All your fund s assets (including money) must be kept separate from your personal or business assets. 18 SETTING UP A SELF-MANAGED SUPER FUND

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Overview for SMSF trustees How your self managed super fund is regulated Explains how we work with you and others to regulate your self managed super fund (SMSF). COVER ICON HEAD Cover icon text For more

Introduction for people considering an SMSF Thinking about self-managed super Steps to work out if managing your own super is right for you NAT 72579-03.2013 NAT 71454 03.2013 NAT 71923-03.2013 COVER ICON

Introduction for paying benefits from an SMSF Paying benefits from a self-managed super fund NAT 74124-04.2013 Our commitment to you We are committed to providing you with accurate, consistent and clear

Introduction for SMSF trustees Winding up a self managed super fund What you need to know NAT 8107-08.2012 Our commitment to you We are committed to providing you with accurate, consistent and clear information

If you are thinking about setting up a SMSF, there are a number of decisions you will need to make regarding the structure, operation and management of your fund. To help you understand the process and

Individuals face a number of considerations in deciding to establish a Self Managed Superannuation Fund (SMSF). This article considers some of those considerations and outlines some of the steps involved.

Taking control of your superannuation Good SMSF Advice helps business owners achieve their goals. Are you in the right superannuation structure? Many Australians outsource the management of their superannuation

Introduction for SMSF trustees Running a self-managed super fund Your role and responsibilities as a trustee NAT 11032-10.2011 Our commitment to you We are committed to providing you with accurate, consistent

The ins and outs of self-managed super Everyone likes to be in control of their own destiny particularly when it comes to finances. Running your own super fund and therefore taking complete control over

Guide for SMSF auditors Approved auditors and self-managed super funds Your role and responsibilities as an approved auditor We recommend that you read this guide and make sure you are familiar with your

Instructions and form for super fund members Payment of unclaimed superannuation money How to complete your Application for payment of unclaimed superannuation money individual. For information about unclaimed

SELF MANAGED SUPER FUNDS The purpose of article is to attempt to 'demystify' the process of setting up a SMSF by outlining the characteristics of SMSF's and the benefits of setting them up. We will also

My SMSF Property Services Guide This guide is an important document which we recommend you read, when choosing any services provided by My SMSF Property. In it we highlight some important considerations,

How super is taxed guide (AP.4) Issued 1 January 2016 The information in this document forms part of the ESSSuper Accumulation Plan Product Disclosure Statement dated 1 January 2016. Contents Providing

It pays to belong TM Key Focus A tax of 15% applies to concessional (i.e. before tax) contributions. All employer and salary sacrifice contributions will be taxed at the top marginal rate if your super

Instructions for and subject form for super fund members Contributions splitting How to complete your Superannuation contributions splitting application. BEFORE COMPLETING THIS APPLICATION Contact your

LICENCES AND REGISTRATIONS FOR PUBLIC PRACTITIONERS IN AUSTRALIA INTRODUCTION In addition to the CPA Australia By-Laws, a public practitioner may be required to satisfy a number of licensing requirements

SMSF Audit Self Managed Super Funds Control Why set up a Self Managed Super Fund (SMSF)? SMSF assets are totally under the control of the Trustees. The Trustees are responsible for taking all decisions

Understanding Self Managed Superannuation Funds Version 5.0 This document provides some additional information to help you understand the financial planning concepts discussed in the SOA in relation to

GUIDANCE NOTE FOR ADVISING ON SMSFS GUIDANCE FOR CPA AUSTRALIA PUBLIC PRACTITIONERS FINANCIAL ADVISORY SERVICES Continuing growth in the number of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) illustrate the

SUPERANNUATION FUNDS. I note that you provide two different types of superannuation funds. Can you tell us what the differences are between them? 2. Are the deeds updated for the new legislation? 3. Why

Lump sum benefit payment request for your superannuation or account based pension How to claim a benefit To claim a benefit you will need to complete the attached Benefit Payment Request and send it direct

ONLINE SAVINGS ACCOUNT. TERMS AND CONDITIONS. THE FINE PRINT. All the details to keep everyone smiling. ABOUT THIS BOOKLET. Congratulations on choosing an Online Savings Account with ME Bank. We know that

Self Managed Super Funds Take charge Gain control of your financial future with a Self-Managed Super Fund (SMSF) About Markiewicz & Co. Markiewicz & Co. is one of Australia s leading full service investment

Questions with Guided Answers by Graeme Colley 2013 Reed International Books Australia Pty Limited trading as LexisNexis. Permission to download and make copies for classroom use is granted. Reproducing

CLIENT FACT SHEET July 2010 Understanding superannuation and superannuation contributions Superannuation is an investment vehicle designed to assist Australians in saving for their retirement. The Government

Your guide to a total solution Ascend self managed super The big picture ISSUE 2 - SEPTEMBER 2009 Components of an SMSF If one member only If 2 to 4 members What is a self managed super fund? Member trustee

Guide for small business operators Advanced guide to capital gains tax concessions for small business 2012 13 For more information visit ato.gov.au NAT 3359 06.2013 OUR COMMITMENT TO YOU We are committed

CSF27 04/12 Tax and your CSS benefit Who should read this? All contributing CSS members. What is in this fact sheet? > > What should I know up front? > > My benefits in the CSS > > How are contributions

AUSTRALIAN PRUDENTIAL REGULATION AUTHORITY SUPERANNUATION CIRCULAR NO. III.E.1 REGULATION OF SMALL APRA FUNDS DECEMBER 2000 2 DISCLAIMER AND COPYRIGHT NOTICE 1. The purpose of this Circular is to provide

Thinking About Self-Managed Super? A Special Report by DBA Accountants Mt Lawley, WA Copyright 2015 Nine Key Issues to Consider 1. What it is Self-Managed Superannuation? 2. Sole Purpose 3. What are the

Instructions and form for retirees and estate trustees Application for direct payment of government super contributions WHO COMPLETES THIS APPLICATION You should complete this application if you want to

TB 40 Funding income protection and trauma insurance via Issued on 16 June 2014. Summary The tax concessions available for certain contributions can make it tax effective to fund income protection (salary

Glossary of Terms ASIC ABN application reference number A unique 13-digit identifying number issued by the Australian Business Register when applying for an Australian Business Number (ABN). Address in

How super is taxed Date of issue: 1 July 2015 mtaasuper.com.audate Phone: 1300December 362 415 2014 Fax: 1300 365 142 of issue: The information in this document forms part of the Product Disclosure Statement

From Issue 52, 2010-11 of Superannuation Quarterly, dated March 2011 In a nutshell... Tax deductions for SMSFs This article looks at various tax deductions that are available to a complying Self Managed

A DIFFERENT KIND OF WEALTH MANAGEMENT FIRM www.jaswealth.com.au Superannuation 101 Everything you always wanted to know but were too afraid to ask What is Superannuation? Superannuation 101 Contents What

Major Reasons for a Self Managed Superannuation Fund ( SMSF ) # Members control an SMSF and (subject to sole purpose test and other restrictions of Australian law) can choose investments (including own

AustChoice Super general reference guide (ACH.02) Issued: 28 May 2015 This guide contains important information not included in the AustChoice Super PDS. We recommend you read this entire guide. The information

Fact sheet and form Notice of intent A notice of intent to claim or vary a deduction for personal super contributions (notice of intent) allows you to claim a tax deduction for your personal contributions,

Page 1 of 13 Managing the tax affairs of someone who has died Introduction This guide will help you finalise the tax affairs of a deceased person. It tells you what tax returns you may need to lodge and

Application for benefit payment or transfer Use this form if you want to cash in your benefit or transfer all or part of your super balance to another super fund. This form should not be used by temporary

AMP SMSF Solutions Is an individual or r corporate trustee ght for your SMSF? 3 One of the greatest aspects of a self managed super fund (SMSF) is the level of control you have in tailoring your fund to

Instructions and form for employers and employees Choosing a super fund How to complete your Standard choice form (NAT 13080). DO YOU NEED TO COMPLETE THIS FORM? Employers You must complete this form if

Understanding Superannuation Client Fact Sheet July 2012 Superannuation is an investment vehicle designed to assist Australians save for retirement. The Federal Government encourages saving through superannuation

Superannuation and Residency Fact Sheet - October 2014 A change in residence has significant implications for superannuation. A number of issues arise when an individual relocates overseas whether temporarily